NEWCASTLE, England — Arsenal experienced a disappointing 1-0 defeat against Newcastle for the second consecutive year on Saturday, marking their third straight game without a victory in the Premier League.

Alexander Isak’s early header proved decisive for Eddie Howe’s side, helping them break a five-game winless streak in the league. The hosts successfully contained Arsenal’s lackluster offense for the remainder of the match.

Building on their recent confidence-boosting victory over Chelsea in the League Cup earlier in the week, Newcastle seized control early in the match. Isak managed to find space between Arsenal center-backs William Saliba and Gabriel, converting a well-placed cross from Anthony Gordon in the 12th minute.

This scenario starkly contrasted with the previous season’s encounter, where Newcastle’s winning goal came from a controversial late scramble that left Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, infuriated after the goal survived a thorough VAR review.

However, Arteta had little to argue about in this loss, as Arsenal rarely posed a threat going forward and struggled creatively without the injured Martin Odegaard in the lineup.

Declan Rice had the best opportunity for Arsenal deep into injury time, but his header went wide after a delivery from Bukayo Saka.

Following this defeat, Arsenal risks falling as many as eight points behind league leaders Manchester City, who are set to face Bournemouth later in the day.